First introduced in 2004, the Faculty Seminar in Service-Learning is a theory-based workshop that introduces faculty members to the philosophy and practice underlying service-learning, and presents opportunities for peer collaboration. Since its inception, approximately 20 faculty and staff members have participated.
The Seminar is organized over a two-day period in late August. Participants discuss the wider social context within which service-learning is practiced, explore the fundamentals of the pedagogy, and examine the concept of “service” as applied to this field. Discussions of assessment, institutional supports and barriers, logistical planning and curriculum development will likely take place. Panels of current professors and community partners who have engaged in service-learning projects provide additional perspectives on the teaching method.
Since this Seminar is designed for individuals who will be using service-learning in their own teaching, all faculty participants in the class will be encouraged to design a service-learning course, unit or project for use in one of their actual courses.
If you’re interested in participating in the next Seminar, please contact the Coordinator of Service-Learning at jwagner@smcvt.edu.